8. Functions of the Board.

(1) It shall be the duty of the Board to promote by such measures as it thinks fit the development of the rubber industry 4***.

(2) Without prejudice to the generality of the foregoing provision, the measures referred to therein may provide for

(a) undertaking, assisting or encouraging scientific, technological and economic research;

(b) training students in improved methods of planting, cultivation, manuring and spraying;

(c) the supply of technical advice to rubber growers;

(d) improving the marketing of rubber;

5[(da) improving the quality of rubber and implementing the standards for quality marking, labeling and packing for the rubber produced or processed in, imported into or exported from, India;]

(e) the collection of statistics from owners of estates, dealers, 6[and manufacturers];

7[(f) securing better working conditions and the provisions and improvement of amenities and incentives for workers;

(g) carrying out any other duties which may be vested in the Board under rules made under this Act.]

(3) It shall also be the duty of the Board

(a) to advise the Central Government on all matters relating to the development of the rubber industry, including the import and export of rubber;

(b) to advice the Central Government with regard to participation in any international Conference or scheme relating to rubber;

(c) to submit to the Central Government and such other authorities as may be prescribed8[half-yearly reports] on its activities and the working of this Act;

(d) to prepare and furnish such other reports relating to the rubber industry as may be required by the Central Government from time to time.